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  5. Borderlands 2

Borderlands 2

Overall Rating: 4.01 • 3272 reviews

Embark on a chaotic journey through Pandora in Borderlands 2, where humor and action collide in this adrenaline-charged, first-person shooter. Dive into the colorful chaos with new Vault Hunters, each armed with unique skills that redefine epic battles against Handsome Jack’s tyranny. Revel in the game’s breathtaking, vibrant world, teeming with hidden treasures and quirky quests. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual player looking for a quick thrill, Borderlands 2 promises a rollicking good time filled with unforgettable moments.

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Details

Some of the particulars and information about Borderlands 2.
Developer: Gearbox
Release Date: September 18, 2012
How Long to Beat: 31 hrs

Ratings

Some of the ratings and scores for Borderlands 2.
89 Metacritic
9 IGN
A- Our Score

Genres

Action
Adventure
First-Person Shooter

Systems

Here's where you can find Borderlands 2 and play.

ESRB: Mature

Use of Alcohol
Blood and Gore
Language
Sexual Themes
Intense Violence
Respawnse

Our Take on Borderlands 2

Borderlands 2 set the benchmark for what a looter shooter can be. With a memorable villain, a cast full of personality, and gameplay that still feels great today, it remains one of the strongest entries in the genre. The writing is sharp, the humor lands more often than not, and the mission structure keeps the pace moving no matter how long or short your sessions are. Even years after release, Borderlands 2 continues to offer an experience that feels rewarding, energetic, and full of charm.

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Overview
Why Play?
How Much Time?
Overview

In the vibrant, anarchic world of Borderlands 2, adventure-seekers and casual gamers alike find a haven brimming with humor and excitement.

Why Play?

Choosing your next gaming adventure can be daunting, but Borderlands 2 makes this decision easier with its uniquely engaging appeal.

How Much Time?

When considering how much time you'll need to dive into Borderlands 2, it's clear that the game offers a rewarding journey filled with excitement and hilarity.

A Vibrant World of Chaos

Borderlands 2 transports players into the chaotic world of Pandora, where they are free to explore sprawling landscapes teeming with enemies and bizarre personalities. The game boasts a unique cel-shaded art style, which sets it apart from conventional shooters by creating a world that’s as colorful as it is dangerous. Each character you encounter adds depth with quirky and humorous dialogue, enhancing the immersive experience. The action-packed atmosphere is paired with an incredible soundtrack that perfectly accompanies the frenetic gameplay. If you enjoyed exploring the vastness and unpredictability of the original Borderlands, then this sequel will undoubtedly capture your imagination in new and thrilling ways.

Diverse Arsenal at Your Disposal

At the heart of Borderlands 2 is its impressive arsenal, boasting a seemingly endless variety of weapons to discover and customize. From standard pistols to bizarre rifles with unexpected features, the game encourages experimentation in combat scenarios. This element of surprise in weaponry ensures that each encounter offers a fresh challenge, keeping the gameplay dynamic and engaging. The gunplay from the original Borderlands has been refined, providing a more satisfying and responsive shooting experience. Players seeking diverse gameplay will relish the opportunity to fine-tune their loadouts, adapting to the ever-evolving threats they face across Pandora.

Entertaining Co-op Multiplayer

Whether you’re a solo adventurer or enjoy teaming up with friends, Borderlands 2 offers a compelling multiplayer experience. The seamless drop-in, drop-out cooperative play enriches the adventure, as players can tackle missions together or engage in friendly competitions to see who can loot the most valuable gear. This camaraderie enhances the excitement, allowing players to strategize and collaborate in taking down larger-than-life bosses and hordes of enemies. If you enjoyed the chaotic team dynamics in other multiplayer titles, giving Borderlands 2 a try might just be your next favorite cooperative gaming experience.

Engaging Storyline and Memorable Characters

What truly makes Borderlands 2 stand out is its engaging storyline intertwined with unforgettable characters that breathe life into the game. Set on the dystopian planet of Pandora, players are introduced to a well-crafted narrative woven with comedy, drama, and unexpected twists that keep them invested from start to finish. Characters such as Handsome Jack, the charismatic antagonist, add layers of complexity to the plot, hooking players with his unpredictable antics. The game excels in character development, making both main and supporting actors indispensable components of the player’s journey. Each narrative arc and side quest isn’t just a task to tick off but a story unfolding, inviting players to immerse themselves in its richly detailed world.

Replayability Through Customization

For gamers who value replayability, Borderlands 2 offers innumerable options that promise fresh experiences on every playthrough. The game’s character classes allow players to explore different playstyles, from the up-close brawn of the Gunzerker to the strategic prowess of the Siren. Each class possesses unique skill trees that players can develop, tailoring their combat style to preference. Moreover, the procedural generation of weapons and loot ensures that no two encounters are identical. This level of customization not only enhances player agency but also ensures that the sense of discovery remains alive and well, motivating even seasoned players to dive back into the chaos of Pandora.

A Rich Universe Expanding With DLC

Borderlands 2 continues to captivate with its array of downloadable content (DLC) that builds upon the vibrant universe established in the base game. These expansions introduce players to new environments, characters, and storylines, each with its unique flair and adventures. From battling in fantastical settings to uncovering hidden backstories of the Pandora populace, these additional content packs extend gameplay and provide a depth that few other games can match. For those eager to delve deeper into the lore or simply explore more of this exhilarating world, the DLC offerings ensure that there’s always more to discover, challenge, and enjoy.

Core Campaign Length

The main campaign of Borderlands 2 offers a substantial playthrough time, often taking players around 30-35 hours to complete. This estimate varies depending on individual play styles, such as how thoroughly players choose to engage with the side quests and exploration opportunities present throughout Pandora. The wealth of main story missions immerses players in the rich narrative and ensures a full-bodied adventure that doesn’t feel rushed. This duration makes it an excellent choice for gamers looking for a robust campaign without the obligation of endless hours.

Expanding the Experience with Side Quests

For players eager to extend their time in Borderlands 2, the side quests offer an additional layer of gameplay, often adding another 10-15 hours. These quests aren’t just added filler; they impart extra narrative depth, comedic elements, and further exploration of the game’s eclectic characters. Each quest fuels discovery and adventure, providing rewarding gameplay experiences that enhance the primary storyline. Completing these additional tasks enriches the player’s journey with diverse challenges and opportunities to unearth more of Pandora’s secrets.

Dive into Downloadable Content

For those seeking even more adventures, the downloadable content (DLC) extends the total game time significantly, often doubling it by introducing new areas, missions, and storylines. With DLCs, players can expect an additional 20-30 hours of gameplay packed with new characters and environments that keep the experience fresh and captivating. These expansions allow for continued exploration long after the main story wraps up, providing excellent value for those wanting to immerse themselves further into the world of Borderlands 2. The blend of humor, action, and storytelling within the DLC ensures that there’s always a fresh adventure waiting just around the corner.

Trailer

A Quick Look at Borderlands 2

Curious what Borderlands 2 is all about? The trailer gives you a great first look at the world, the vibe, and the kind of story you're stepping into.

Borderlands 2 Trailer
Videos

Related videos for Borderlands 2

These videos give some tips and pointers on getting started with Borderlands 2

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Screenshots

Screenshots of Borderlands 2

Want to see what Borderlands 2 actually looks like in-game? These screenshots will hopefully give you a feel for what the world of Borderlands 2 is like.

Borderlands 2
Borderlands 2
Borderlands 2
Borderlands 2
Borderlands 2
Borderlands 2
Extras

Downloadable Content for Borderlands 2

DLC just means more of a good thing. Here are some for Borderlands 2

Borderlands 2: Commander Lilith & the Fight for Sanctuary
Borderlands 2: Commander Lilith & the Fight for Sanctuary
Borderlands 2 VR
Borderlands 2 VR
Borderlands 2: Headhunter 5 - Sire Hammerlock Versus the Son Crawmerax
Borderlands 2: Headhunter 5 - Sire Hammerlock Versus the Son Crawmerax

Borderlands 2: Commander Lilith & the Fight for Sanctuary

New Adventures Await in Borderlands 2: Commander Lilith & the Fight for Sanctuary

Immerse yourself in the chaotic world of Pandora once again with Borderlands 2: Commander Lilith & the Fight for Sanctuary. This thrilling DLC expands on the beloved sequel by throwing players into the heart of an action-packed storyline that bridges the gap to the events of Borderlands 3. As Sanctuary faces a dire threat from a toxic new enemy, it’s up to you and your band of Vault Hunters to protect the city and uncover secrets that could save it. Whether you’re a seasoned Borderlands veteran or jumping in for more looter-shooter excitement, this expansion offers a well-paced narrative full of humor and explosive action.

Engaging Gameplay with Exciting Rewards

Players will be greeted with the signature gameplay they know and love but with exciting new twists. This DLC elevates the experience by introducing a higher level cap, giving you more opportunities to enhance your combat prowess. You’ll encounter new enemies and challenges while exploring vibrant new areas teeming with treasure and high-stakes encounters. The gameplay balances casual fun and engaging combat, allowing players with limited time to feel the satisfaction of completing meaningful quests and discovering powerful weapons.

Explore an Expansive New World

The world of Pandora is more detailed than ever in Borderlands 2: Commander Lilith & the Fight for Sanctuary, with lavish and beautifully crafted environments that await exploration. The vibrant landscapes, filled with unique sights and hidden secrets, invite players to lose themselves in its immersive setting. Accompanied by a fantastic soundtrack and the franchise’s trademark humor, this DLC encapsulates the sheer fun and unpredictability Borderlands is known for. Players can expect memorable moments as they join the fight to save Sanctuary, all while experiencing a richly detailed continuation of the Borderlands story.

Borderlands 2 VR

Step into Pandora with Enhanced Immersion

Experience the thrill of Pandora like never before with the Borderlands 2 VR DLC, transforming the classic first-person shooter into a breathtaking virtual reality adventure. This VR adaptation places you directly in the heart of the action, offering an unprecedented level of immersion. Whether it’s navigating the hostile landscapes or engaging in frenetic gunfights, every element of the original game is enhanced to provide a tactile and visceral experience. Gamers who prefer fun and immersive escapades will find a delightful escape into this vibrant, chaotic world.

An Exciting Twist on a Beloved Classic

For those who relish humor and engaging storytelling, Borderlands 2 VR delivers just that with an extra twist of VR innovation. While the core narrative of the game remains intact, the new perspective brings a fresh dynamism to exploring familiar locales and interacting with quirky characters. The game even includes the Bad Ass Mega Fun Time feature, which allows players to slow down time and strategically plan their moves during intense battles, giving an entertaining edge to encounters without veering into hardcore territory.

Optimized for a Comfortable Gaming Experience

With thoughtful considerations for comfort, Borderlands 2 VR ensures an enjoyable experience even for players with limited gaming time. Developers have implemented smooth and intuitive controls, minimizing nausea and maximizing player ease. Motion sickness concerns are reduced thanks to options like teleportation-based movement. This means you can dive into the comic-style carnage without worrying about discomfort, perfect for casual sessions after a long day. With engaging gameplay, humorous dialogue, and detailed environments, this DLC showcases VR’s potential to deepen and enliven gaming experiences.

Borderlands 2: Headhunter 5 - Sire Hammerlock Versus the Son Crawmerax

Embark on an Exotic Adventure

In Borderlands 2: Headhunter 5 – Sir Hammerlock Versus the Son of Crawmerax, players are whisked away to the lush and mysterious Wam Bam Island for a thrilling escapade. This DLC takes you on a vacation-like expedition that quickly spirals into chaos. As you team up with the gentlemanly Sir Hammerlock and the rest of the Vault Hunters, prepare to uncover secrets, unravel mysteries, and face the might of Crawmerax Junior—a formidable enemy seeking vengeance for the past. The vibrant island setting provides an engaging backdrop filled with tropical dangers and treasures, creating a refreshing experience for players looking for a change of scenery.

Engaging Quests and Memorable Characters

This DLC features a host of gripping missions accentuated by witty dialogues, iconic to the Borderlands series. Sir Hammerlock needs your help to foil the plans of Crawmerax Junior, who has taken the island hostage with his monstrous minions. The character interactions in this installment are exceptionally entertaining, as they brim with humor and quirky exchanges. These enriching quests reinforce the open-world charm of Borderlands, keeping players hooked without overwhelming them with overly complex gameplay. This makes the DLC an ideal choice for gamers with limited time, offering rewarding and concise sessions rich with humor and excitement.

Face the Ultimate Challenge

No Borderlands adventure would be complete without a heart-pounding boss battle, and Crawmerax Junior does not disappoint. The Son of Crawmerax offers a formidable challenge set against the stunning vistas of Wam Bam Island. Players will need to strategize and bring their best gear to emerge victorious. This boss fight is not just about brute force—it’s a test of your skills honed throughout your Borderlands journey. Whether you tackle it solo or with friends, the experience is sure to be memorable, giving you that satisfying sense of accomplishment as you conquer one of the most challenging adversaries in the game’s universe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions About Borderlands 2?

How do the gameplay mechanics and controls work in Borderlands 2?

In Borderlands 2, players experience first-person shooter gameplay with RPG elements. The controls are similar to other FPS games, allowing players to move, aim, and shoot using a combination of keyboard/mouse or controller inputs. Combat involves using a wide variety of weapons, and players can also exploit skills unique to their character class to enhance their battle strategies.

What are the system requirements and potential performance issues for Borderlands 2?

Borderlands 2 runs on a variety of systems, with minimum requirements including a dual-core processor and a NVIDIA GeForce 8500 or ATI Radeon HD 2600 graphics card. However, for smoother performance, especially at higher settings, a quad-core processor and a more powerful GPU are recommended. Players might encounter occasional bugs or frame rate drops, but these are generally not game-breaking and patches have been released to address major issues.

How long is the story in Borderlands 2 and is there any replay value?

The main story of Borderlands 2 typically takes around 30 hours to complete, but the game offers significant replay value through side quests, multiple character classes, and numerous DLCs. Higher difficulty levels and the option to play New Game Plus also encourage players to revisit the game for a fresh experience with greater challenges.

What multiplayer options are available in Borderlands 2?

Borderlands 2 features a cooperative multiplayer mode where up to four players can team up to tackle missions together. The online co-op experience is seamless, allowing friends to join games easily and work together to overcome tougher enemies. Additionally, there’s a vibrant community that supports modding and social interaction, enhancing the multiplayer experience.

On which platforms is Borderlands 2 available, and how can I purchase it?

Borderlands 2 is available on multiple platforms including PC, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and has been re-released for Xbox One and PlayStation 4. It can be purchased digitally on platforms like Steam or console stores, and physical copies are also an option. Additionally, the game has several DLCs that can be bought separately or as part of a Game of the Year Edition, which includes most of the additional content.

Franchise

Explore More From Borderlands

There's more to Borderlands than Borderlands 2. Check out some of the other games in the franchise.

Borderlands 4
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands
Borderlands 3
Tales From the Borderlands
Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel
Borderlands
Learn More About the Franchise
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